Anita Raj's character in 254 is inspired by Sonia Gandhi

Anil Kapoor with Rahul Khanna in a still from TV series 24.

Abhinay Deo with Anil Kapoor and Neil Bhoopalam on the sets of upcoming TV series 24. (Photos: Sanjay Solanki)

Shabana Azmi in a still from TV series 24.

Anupam Kher in a still from TV series 24.

Tisca Chopra in a still from TV series 24.

Anil Kapoor with Mandira Bedi on the sets of TV series 24.

Anil Kapoor is shooting for his upcoming TV series 24. (Photos: Sanjay Solanki)

The Anti-Terrorist Unit office on the sets of 24. (Photos: Sanjay Solanki)

Neil Bhoopalam and Anita Raaj in a still from TV series 24.

Anita Raj, who had a flourishing film career in the ’80s, is excited to be on TV in Anil Kapoor’s Indian version of 24. The actor claims that her role on the show is inspired by Congress leader Sonia Gandhi.

“Yes, my character is inspired by Sonia, and that inspired me to do the role. Naina Singhania (the character) is an ambitious woman. She’s the authoritative, assertive wife of a late politician, who wants the best for her son and will go to any length for him,” says Anita, adding, “When Abhinay (Deo; director) offered me this role, I could relate to it. It was a good opportunity to work with Anil (Kapoor) again, though I wish we had some scenes together.”

The actor has previously been on TV with the show Eena Meena Deeka. Her last acting assignment was the film Char Din Ki Chandni (2011), where she had a small role. “I got my due in the industry, and I’ve worked with some of the best in the business. I have no regrets,” she says. Adding that she’s keen on doing more work now, Anita says, “I’m interested in TV. Earlier, when I had offers, I couldn’t take them up as my son was too young. I would love to do some fiction shows.”

Now grown up, her son Shivam has worked as an assistant director on films like Agneepath (2012) and Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani. Ask about his plans and Anita says, “He will be acting as well as directing. There will be an announcement soon.”